With three-quarters of the Rotary year already behind us, it’s inspiring to see the energy, passion, and commitment of Rotarians across our District. Your dedication to service continues to create an impact both locally and internationally.
Our District Chair of Club Services, John Ilott, has launched the District Membership Retention Strategy. This initiative emphasizes the crucial role of Club Service Chairs in creating a simply irresistible membership experience—leading to greater engagement, retention, and a true sense of belonging within Rotary.
In the past month, I had the opportunity to visit two other Districts—9780 and 9685—at their Annual Conferences. These visits served as a powerful reminder of the opportunities available when Rotarians come together. Whether it’s through collaboration in Community Groups, International Partnerships, or working alongside fellow Rotarians worldwide, the potential for change is enormous. Speaking of coming together, have you registered for the Impact Summit in Adelaide this May?
Left: With D9780 Governor Lesley Sheddon; Right: With D9685 Governor Lisa Hunt
Momentum is building for the Impact Summit, and we’re thrilled about the lineup of exceptional speakers and entertainers. We’re also honored to welcome Past District Governor from New Zealand, Leanne Jaggs, as the Rotary International President’s Representative for the event. It promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Closer to home, we’ve had several successful New Member Events across both regional and metro areas, welcoming and recognizing our newest Rotarians. It’s incredibly exciting to witness their commitment, passion, and potential as they begin their Rotary journey.
We also welcome Claire Davison, current President of the Rotary Club of Richmond, as our District Governor Nominee Designate. Claire will lead our District in the 2027-2028 Rotary year, and we look forward to supporting her on this journey.
This past month, I had the privilege of speaking at the Rotary Mega Meeting, which brought together over 1,500 registrants from around the world. I highlighted the Rotary SAFE Families program, which was developed right here in our District by Dorothy Gilmour (current President of the Rotary Club of Hawthorn). The program is now extending globally, with notable Patrons including Immediate Past Rotary International President Gordon McInally, Past Vice President Pat Merryweather-Agers, and current Chair of the Rotary Action Group for Peace, Grace van Zyl. It’s fantastic to see this initiative making a worldwide impact.
I also had the pleasure of speaking at a joint club meeting with RC Sandringham and RC Hampton on the importance of leveraging the unique vocations of every Rotarian. Additionally, I attended the civic reception for the Rotary Club of Bendigo as they celebrate their 100th year of service—an incredible milestone that truly embodies the spirit of Rotary.
On a lighter note, I had a great time at the Celtic Festival on St. Patrick’s Day! It’s wonderful to see events like this continuing to support Rotary, particularly through Australian Rotary Health.
Our youth continue to amaze us with their leadership potential, as demonstrated at the recent Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment (RYPEN). A huge thank you to all the clubs that supported young people in attending this event, as well as to the organizers who made it possible. Investing in youth leadership is one of the greatest contributions we can make to the future of Rotary and our communities.
The District is also pleased to offer a subsidy for clubs interested in installing a Peace Pole in their communities. These Peace Poles serve as a global symbol of Rotary’s commitment to peacebuilding and unity, reinforcing our dedication to creating a more harmonious world.
So far, we've received 9 applications (of the possible 20). I encourage clubs to take advantage of this initiative and further our mission of promoting peace.
Don't forget, applications for the 2026 Rotary Peace Fellowships are now open until May 15, 2025.
Thank you all for your continued dedication to making Rotary truly magical. Let’s keep the momentum going as we head into the final quarter of the year!